When Luc left Maxis, he already mentioned a new version for The Sims on the consoles, which will be released later this year. Now IGN has posted some info about it. The current working title is "Urban Sims". Urban because your Sims will be able to go downtown in this new title. As with Bustin' Out, the game will be released on PlayStation2, GameCube, X-Box and GBA. The GBA version is again different from the others, and will be developed by Griptonite Games, which also made Bustin' Out on the GBA. Read on for a lot more information and screenshots...
On the GBA, the gameplay will be similar to Bustin' Out, focused mainly on the storyline and the 8 new minigames. A system link will again be available so multiplayer options are available. The GBA version of Urban Sims will also feature 25 new locations including Urbania, Sim Quarter, and the Bayou. As if that's not enough there will also be more new vehicles like a hovercraft in order to travel between these areas. If you'd like to see a first screenshots, go to IGN's Media Page of the game.The console version will also get some major improvements. Sims will be able to live a hipper lifestyle, but you will also be able to follow your Sim to work. The job is no longer an invisible component in the everyday life. Creating a Sim will again be more detailed so you can make your favourite Sim look even better. The new city areas will all have their own unique feel and soundtrack, and your Sims will need to make friends in a variety of those areas to gain a better reputation. Popular Sims will also be recognized on the streets, and even more popular Sims will be able to influence the trends. Besides that, Sims will be able to carry around electronic devices like a PDA or a cellphone, but they will now also be able to e-mail.
To make sure the different styles will be as realistic as possible, Maxis has hired some advisors. With the enhanced graphics the game will look more modern and realistic. To see a sample of that, check out some screenshots IGN posted.
More information about Urban Sims can be expected soon. We will keep you updated. Make sure you visit regularly next month during the E3 (11-14 May), as the game will more than likely be shown there. During those few days a lot of new material including screenshots, videos and interviews will probably pop up all over the internet.
Written at 16:30 on Saturday, 17 April 2004 by ChEeTaH.
